Embry-Riddle students in Okinawa get a refurbished lounge at Kadena

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has refurbished a student lounge at its Kadena Air Base campus in Okinawa, creating a space for students to study, meet and connect with the campus community. The university announced the project Oct. 23, saying the lounge is in Room 218 of the Kadena Air Base Education Center.

The project was supported by Embry-Riddle’s Student Government Association Ground Support Initiative and approved unanimously by Kadena campus students and executive officers of the ERAU Okinawa Network student organization. The effort gives students a dedicated place for academic work and campus activities at a university site serving military members and their families in the Pacific.

What the lounge offers

The refreshed room has student computer stations and refreshments, and is intended to accommodate several uses. Students can study there, while student government officers can hold required quarterly meetings. The space can also support collaboration between students and faculty taking EagleVision Classroom courses.

The Okinawa Network’s mission is to build personal and professional connections among Embry-Riddle students, staff and faculty across the island. Campus Director Alane Aihara, who advises the group, said the refresh followed efforts to listen to students and turn their ideas into a shared space. The university described the work as an example of student leadership and collaboration.

How students can get involved

Kadena Campus plans to hold a grand opening where students can explore the lounge, learn about available resources and meet other students, faculty and staff. The announcement did not give a date for the event or specify the lounge’s hours or access arrangements.

Students interested in the Student Government Association can connect through eUnion, which requires a login. The university says students can use the platform to join upcoming events, vote in SGA elections and register a student organization. It also directs students to SGA Worldwide’s LinkedIn and Instagram accounts for updates.

This report draws on information from Stripes Okinawa.